How to learn anything with Feynman Technique

The Feynman Technique is a unique learning method that prioritizes simplicity to create depth of  understanding. It is named after Richard Feynman- an American theoretical physicist who won the Nobel Prize in 1965 for his groundbreaking work in quantum electrodynamics.

The Feynman Technique is a powerful framework for learning anything.

The best entrepreneurs, investors, and thinkers have leveraged this technique- whether they know it or not!

Their common genius: the ability to abstract complexity and convey ideas in simple, digestible ways.

The Feynman Technique is a learning framework that requires you to develop a deep understanding of a given topic.

It involves 4 key steps:

1. Set the Stage

2. ELI5 (Explain It To Me Like I'm 5) 

3. Assess & Study

4. Organize, Convey & Review

Let's cover each step:

Step 1: Set the Stage

What's the topic you want to learn?

Starting with a blank page, write the topic at the top & jot down everything you know about it.

Read & research the topic.

Add any new learnings or insights as you develop them.

Step 2: ELI5

Here's where it gets unique:

Attempt to explain the topic to someone without a base understanding of it (i.e. a "child").

On a blank page, write down everything you know about your topic-but pretend you are explaining it to a child.

Use simple language!

Step 3: Assess & Study

Reflect on your performance-form an honest assessment.

How well were you able to explain the topic to a child? Where did you get frustrated? Where did you turn to jargon?

These are the gaps in your understanding!

Read and study more to fill them.

Step 4: Organize, Convey & Review

Organize your elegant, simple language into a clear, compelling story or narrative.

Convey it to a few others, then iterate and refine accordingly.

Review your new, deep understanding of the topic.

Remember: Simple is beautiful.